Secure Code Generation with Nested Watermarking for Counterfeit Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing authentication methods for products, such as quick response codes and holograms, are vulnerable to counterfeiting as they can be easily reproduced, and additional security measures like engraving graphical elements increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that generates a secure code for product authentication by using a processing subsystem hosted on a server to acquire product details, generate codes, watermark points, and overlay visible patterns to create a secure code, which can be authenticated using image sensors and pattern reconstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional quick response codes and holograms are used for authentication, then the authentication process is simple, but the security against counterfeiting is weak because they are easily reproducible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds multiple layers of information within the QR code structure. The base QR code contains product identification data, while additional security patterns, control points, and invisible patterns are nested within or overlaid on the base code. This nested structure allows the code to maintain its basic scannability while incorporating multiple security layers that are difficult to replicate
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D QR codes to a multi-dimensional security structure by adding invisible patterns, control points, and overlay patterns that exist in different visual dimensions. The visible pattern provides structural integrity while invisible patterns contain additional security information, creating a multi-layered authentication system that goes beyond conventional 2D coding
2Reliability
If engraving additional graphical elements is added to quick response codes and holograms to enhance security, then the authentication security is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases due to additional printing equipment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple security features into a single QR code generation process. The visible pattern, invisible pattern, control points, and product information are all integrated into one code structure that can be generated and printed using standard QR code printing equipment, eliminating the need for separate engraving or special printing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses digital pattern generation and overlay techniques that can be replicated through software without requiring additional physical manufacturing equipment. The secure code is generated digitally with embedded security patterns that can be printed using conventional methods, avoiding the need for expensive specialized printing or engraving equipment
3Measurement precision
If a secure code with multiple patterns and control points is generated, then the authentication accuracy is high, but the code generation and processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the authentication system into distinct functional modules: a generation module that creates the secure code with embedded patterns, a database module that stores reference information, and a verification module that scans and validates the code. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function efficiently, managing complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces control points as intermediary elements that connect the visible pattern, invisible pattern, and product information within the QR code structure. These control points serve as reference markers that facilitate accurate pattern recognition and verification without requiring complex processing of the entire code structure at once
Data Source
AI summary
System to generate a secure code for authenticating a product is provided. The system includes a processing subsystem including a code generation module to generate a code based on product details. The processing subsystem includes a watermarking module to watermark points in the code. The processing subsystem includes a visible pattern generation module to generate a visible pattern. The processing subsystem includes a concealed pattern generation module to store a concealed pattern including second control points. The processing subsystem includes an overlay module to provide the secure code. The processing subsystem includes a scanning module to analyze the secure code to obtain the first points and discrete points. The scanning module is to interconnect the first points and the discrete points to obtain a reconstructed pattern including third control points. The scanning module is to compare the third control points with the second control points to authenticate the secure code.